The word 确保 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core meaning to create a new, unified concept. The first character, 确, carries the idea of being certain, definite, or solid. The second character, 保, means to protect, preserve, or guarantee. Their combination creates a logical sequence: to first make something solid and certain (确), and then to actively guard or uphold that state (保), resulting in the comprehensive meaning of "to ensure" or "to make certain".